What should you know about private dating scan?

The scan uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and pregnancy. Depending on how early the pregnancy is, the sonographer may scan over the abdomen or offer an internal scan for a clearer view. They may assess the pregnancy sac, embryo, heartbeat when visible, location and number of pregnancies, then use measurements to estimate a due date. An early scan can be reassuring, but findings may be limited when the pregnancy is very early, so a repeat assessment may be suggested.

Bring the date your last menstrual period began and tell the clinic about pain, bleeding, fertility treatment or previous pregnancy concerns. Follow the clinic's instructions about your bladder, as preparation varies with the scan method. A private scan does not replace routine antenatal care, screening or medical assessment. Keep your maternity appointments and ask how the images and report will be shared with your pregnancy-care team. Later pregnancy screening, such as a nuchal translucency scan, is a separate examination.

Contact urgent medical services for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness or feeling very unwell. These symptoms need clinical assessment and should not wait for a private scan appointment. Contact your maternity team promptly for any bleeding or persistent pain, even if a scan has been reassuring.

Ask what the scan showed, how reliable the estimated dates are, whether the pregnancy is in the uterus, and what follow-up or routine screening is needed.